I still recall meeting Anya for the first time in Manila last year. Straight out of university, she was already on her grind, creating a sustainable packaging enterprise composed of upcycled materials. Her passion was contagious, but she fumbled with access to capital and mentorship, resources that come standard in Silicon Valley. Now, that’s all beginning to change, and Anya’s story is about to get a whole lot happier.

Asia's Time Arrived Now Finally?

The narrative is shifting. We’ve largely accepted the narrative that America’s top Asian talent are streaming to the US, in pursuit of their American dream. What do you do when that dream begins to appear a little… rusty? What do we do when the very policies intended to protect American interests actually serve to create a colossal opening for Asia?

As the US continues to fight its own trade wars and cut funding for crucial research institutions such as the NSF and NIH. In doing so, it's unwittingly ceding Asia a golden opportunity. Tariffs usually have been thought of as a blunt instrument that only affects product-based startups, when in fact their reach and impact are much broader. They’re disrupting global supply chains, creating uncertainty, and forcing companies to re-evaluate their dependence on US markets.

It's not just about tech unicorns anymore. Silicon Valley’s obsession with AI and crypto, fueled by fawning lobbyingists pushing to avoid regulation. In the meantime, the real economic drivers such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, energy, agriculture, and manufacturing are facing massive upheaval. And guess who's poised to capitalize? Asia.

Beyond Silicon Valley's Hype Machine

Let’s face it, hype is life in Silicon Valley. But hype doesn't build lasting industries. Manufacturing does. And Asia dominates manufacturing. Think about it: nearly 65% of innovation and patents originate in the manufacturing sector. Asia’s competitive advantage in this area with the backdrop of its quickly maturing startup ecosystems is a dangerous combination.

We're seeing it happen in real-time. Be it major players like China and India or smaller players like the Philippines, everybody is pouring money into their startup ecosystems. China went all in, too — literally — as the central government churned out over $80 billion into startups. And it's not just about the money. It’s about creating a culture and environment around tech, with investors, consultants, accelerators, a healthy tech ecosystem.

Recently, I met with Raikk Chan Kok Woei, founder of Guardian Ventures. His perspectives were truly incredible, what a wake-up call! He’s in the process of creating an Asia-based VC firm. It’s a revolutionary approach to providing all around support to its portfolio companies, which Mangus calls Growth Hacking. It's not just about funding. It's about understanding customers better than they understand themselves, positioning companies for success, and providing the resources they need to scale.

Guardian Ventures coup with Starwise, a Malaysia-based electronics accessories supplier, is an example of such an approach. They're not just throwing money at a problem. They're actively involved in helping their companies grow and reach their full potential.

Seize the Moment, Asian Founders

The message is clear: Asia is not just a manufacturing hub anymore. This region pulses with innovation. This is a place where all kinds of founders can start world-changing companies without having to run after the Silicon Valley unicorn.

This is your moment. Asian governments are showing leadership and taking decisive steps. They’re not only creating research arms, they’re replicating programs such as the US Small Business Innovation Research Program, and manufacturing the infrastructure to lead in tomorrow’s emerging technologies.

  • Access to Funding is Increasing: More venture capital firms are focusing on Asia, providing more opportunities for startups to secure funding.
  • Talent is Abundant: Asia has a large and growing pool of skilled engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs.
  • Markets are Expanding: Asia is home to some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, creating vast new markets for innovative products and services.

The US would be doing the equivalent of shooting itself in the foot, but Asia is eager to take on the torch. Now is the time for Asian founders to rise, take hold of opportunity and help build tomorrow today. Anya, and millions of others just like her, have had enough. Are you? Because the whole world is watching, and the moment is opportune. Let's show them what Asia can do.

  • Tap into local resources: Explore the accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces in your area.
  • Connect with mentors: Seek out experienced entrepreneurs and investors who can provide guidance and support.
  • Focus on solving local problems: Identify the challenges facing your community and build solutions that are tailored to the local market.
  • Don't be afraid to think big: Asia is a continent of immense potential. Dream big, be bold, and don't be afraid to disrupt the status quo.

The US may be shooting itself in the foot, but Asia is ready to pick up the torch. It's time for Asian founders to step up, seize the moment, and build the future. Anya, and countless others like her, are ready. Are you? The world is watching, and the opportunity is ripe for the taking. Let's show them what Asia can do.